Homemade lemon pepper seasoning made by crushing lemon zest with black pepper grains.[1]
Lemon pepper (also known as lemon pepper seasoning) is a spice blend made from granulated lemon zest and cracked black peppercorns. The lemon zest is mashed with the pepper so that the citrus oil infuses into the pepper. The mixture is then baked and dried. Lemon pepper can be used on meats—particularly poultry—and pasta, although it was originally used primarily for seafood. It is also a popular flavor for chicken wings, especially in American cuisine.[2]
History
Lemon pepper seasoning was commercially launched in July 1967 by William Shoffeitt, a product engineer based in Healdsburg, California. Shoffeitt developed the blend as part of his company, Shoffeitt’s Enhance Seasoners. His product gained regional popularity along the West Coast of the United States and was promoted at food trade shows and sold at major department stores including Sears and JCPenney.[3][4]
Composition
While lemon zest and black pepper are the primary ingredients, commercial and homemade variations may include:
Salt
Sugar
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Citric acid
Natural or artificial lemon flavoring
Cayenne pepper
Other spices or preservatives
Homemade lemon pepper seasoning recipes vary widely and are often customized to taste.[5]
Usage
Lemon pepper is commonly used to season:
Grilled or baked chicken
Pasta dishes
Grilled or baked fish (especially salmon or tilapia)
Roasted vegetables
Potato dishes
Popcorn and snack mixes
Lemon pepper chicken wings are a notable variant in American bar and sports cuisine, especially popular in cities like Atlanta.[6]
